I was too late to get a pass for the actual convention, but that's alright, because I'd really just like to be in the area to get a few shots to build my cosplay photography portfolio. Has anyone been before that can tell me if there are any decent places to shoot outdoors around the hotel? :) (That a pass, of course, wouldn't be necessary for)

Akahime

03-25-2013, 11:42 PM

There isn't MUCH outdoors around the hotel that are decent. I aim for the walls as the backgrounds and sometimes corners to make my photos more interesting. Softiel hotel though does not need a pass and their lobby is well lit during daytime so indoor photography isn't impossible. And the Softiel Hotel is WAYYY nicer inside! Or else, it's pretty much just cars, streets, and highway around the hotel area. You just have to get creative from there!

{edit}

But seriously, my favorite area is the south wing (I think that's correct, the side where smokers goes always go to smoke) because of the way the light hits the walls and the way the 'path' makes in a photo, like this one (sorry, old photo, lol):

But each photographer got their own likes and dislikes, so I'm sure you'll find something that you'll like. Just do a quick search around the hotel to see if there is a spot or two you like. :)

Siffy

03-26-2013, 05:59 PM

Super helpful! Thanks so much! :)

Akahime

03-26-2013, 11:36 PM

I'm glad it was! No problem! I hope you're able to find a good spot!

carrousel

04-06-2013, 01:48 PM

I would definitely recommend the Sophitel across the street from the con for pics, unfortunately the area outside is not really set up for good photo ops. Remember, you don't have to be at a con to take cosplay pics!

If you wanted to go by the area for the day to just hang out for the atmosphere, most people eat at the TGIF and the DQ and sort of mill about the outside of the Double Tree. Also, if you are 21+ you can still hang out in the bar at the hotel ;)